September 2009

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Luke 12.34

What is your treasure? And where is it? Or the other way round: Where is your heart? What has top priority in your life?

Breathing, drinking and eating would be quite high on our list of priorities. But that goes without saying. It's hardly a question of whether we breathe or whether we eat and drink. Perhaps we consider the quality and quantity of food and drink a bit more, but not whether or not we should have some.

But people tend to worry. That was not different in the days of Jesus. They worried about having enough to eat and clothes to wear. From that worry come provisions for a rainy day and then some more provisions, just in case. And gradually people are more occupied with squirreling wealth together than thinking about God and the world, or their neighbours. Just to make sure they have enough.

Jesus was not pleased with this attitude (Luke 12.22-34). He tells them about the birds, who don't gather in barns, and the lilies that are just perishable grass and yet clothed in great beauty. They don't make a fuss and God still feeds and clothes them. Aren't we more important to God then them? He loves us and knows our needs. So, do not cling to transient things by hoarding them unnecessarily! Open your eyes for the needy and use your wealth, loving God and your neighbour! That will give you a treasure that can't be stolen and that can't perish. Make God and your neighbour your treasure; they should have top priority over all things. And by doing this you will also do yourself good.